Long-lasting tolerance to alcohol following a history of dependence Addiction Biology (OnlineEarly Articles). 11 September 2007
Tolerance to alcohol effects is one of the defining features of clinical alcohol dependence. Here, we hypothesized that the post-dependent state may include tolerance to sedative-hypnotic alcohol actions. To address this question, we used a recently developed animal model in which repeated cycles of alcohol intoxication and withdrawal trigger long-lasting behavioral plasticity.
In conclusion, a history of alcohol dependence induces long-lasting hypnotic tolerance. This process may play an important role in maintaining the dependent state.
Reprint Rquest E-Mail: roberto.rimondini@unibo.it